If you work with me, you know I get around a computer fairly well. What makes me so fast, you ask? Creativity and efficiency. Here are a few tips for you to get started:
A. Tools
- Dropbox (www.dropbox.com) - this is a free online storage utility with the option of downloading an application. The application will auto-sync all of your files from your computer(s) to the cloud. This tool is great for people working on different computers, or who travel. It is also a wonderful collaboration tool, as multiple users can be invited to access a folder(s).
- Word/PowerPoint - I love these applications for many reasons, but one of the most under appreciated features on these applications are templates. I make templates for rubrics, assignment sheets, and projects.
- First Class - If you are already logged into First Class anyway, why not put files in there? :)
B. Strategies
- Workflow is everything! Try shaving a few seconds off those tedious mouse clicks: Click here for my blog on Hot Keys.
- Try using multiple windows. It sounds simple, but I see a LOT of people minimize/maximize/ minimize/maximize....
- Use the same formatting for multiple documents. Don't reinvent the wheel. Use rubrics on more than one project and create simple templates by opening old documents and "Save As"...
- Naming Systems. I am a strong believer in solid nomenclature. If I am teaching Earth Science and doing a project on Volcanoes, I want to find my students' and my own files quickly and efficiently.
EXAMPLE 1: Earth Science Volcanoes Project
ESCI_Volcanoes_Assignment = My Assignment
ESCI_Volcanoes_Rubric = Rubric
ESCI_Volcanoes_Template = Student Demo Example
ESCI_Volcanes_XXX = Student's Project with their initials on the end (XXX)
EXAMPLE 2: US History Constitution Project
USHIST_Constitution_Assignment = My Assignment
USHIST_Constitution_Rubric = Rubric
USHIST_Constitution_Notes = Notes to students
USHIST_Constitution_Template = Student Demo Example
USHIST_Constitution_XXX = Student's Project with their initials on the end (XXX)
